TikTok users in the United States are noticing signs of increased censorship on the platform, following the enforcement of a new law aimed at addressing national security concerns. The law, passed during the Biden administration with bipartisan support, mandates that the video-sharing platform be sold to a US buyer. The law also follows an executive order from former President Donald Trump, who had vowed to find a solution to the platform’s potential ban.
Users have reported fewer live streams and an uptick in content being flagged or removed for violating community guidelines, including actions that had previously been allowed. Several TikTok users claim they are encountering more content moderation, such as restricted search results, warnings about misinformation, and prompts urging users to verify their sources.
Some users have raised concerns that TikTok is now censoring specific phrases and topics, including “Free Palestine” and references to controversial figures. TikTok, in response, stated that it does not tolerate content promoting violence or hate but emphasized that no changes had been made to its policies or algorithms over the weekend. The company clarified that any disruptions to the app’s features are temporary and due to efforts to restore normal US operations.
Content creators are also feeling the effects of increased moderation. Pat Loller, a comedian with 1.3 million followers, shared that a satirical video he created about Elon Musk’s hand gesture at an inauguration event was tagged as misinformation and its sharing was restricted. Loller expressed surprise at the limitations on his content, noting that his video had accumulated over a million views before the restrictions were imposed.
In another incident, TikTok user Lisa Cline claimed her video criticizing Trump was rejected multiple times due to censorship. Meanwhile, political commentator Danisha Carter reported that her account, which had 2 million followers, was permanently suspended after the platform’s operations resumed. Carter, who had called out wealthy tech executives for their influence over US politics, believes the suspension was politically targeted.
Other users, including content creator Ada Ortiz, say they’ve faced warnings or account strikes for comments unrelated to politics. Ortiz, who posted pro-Vice President Kamala Harris content, had videos removed and received warnings that she might lose access to certain features if violations continued.
The concerns reflect broader anxieties over the potential political targeting of content creators and the increasing control over social media platforms. As the legal and political landscape continues to evolve, TikTok users are left grappling with uncertainty over the future of their content and freedoms on the platform.
